The AURALiC ARIES S1 has been crafted to deliver unparalleled sound quality within it’s price range. Drawing inspiration from the esteemed G2.2 reference products, these machines inherit premium audio technologies that set new standards in the industry.
Powered by the cutting-edge Tesla G3 streaming platform, the S1 series leverages AURALiC’s innovative Direct Memory Access (DMA) and Direct Data Recording (DDR) technologies. By seamlessly recording incoming audio data into the Tesla G3’s system memory and transmitting it directly to the low-level audio hardware. With the inclusion of Dual 60fs Femto Clocks and Galvanic Isolation, the S1 series achieves an unprecedented level of noise reduction. The meticulous attention to detail in the S1 series ensures that clock jitter and signal distortion are minimized to an extraordinary degree. The result is a remarkably smooth and natural sound character that faithfully reproduces the nuances of the original audio, providing an immersive listening experience that captivates the senses.
Connectivity
AURALiC S1 offers a seamless streaming experience via Ethernet using its proprietary Lightning DS software, Apple AirPlay 2, TIDAL Connect, Spotify Connect, Internet Radio, and a variety of digital input channels including USB audio, Coaxial, and Toslink. AURALiC’s Lightning DS seamlessly integrates popular streaming services like Amazon Music Unlimited, TIDAL, Qobuz, TuneIn, KKbox and more. Additionally, S1 can play music stored on NAS drive, USB drive and CD drive. The S1 will be Roon Ready upon completion of Roon certification.
What does streaming processor actually mean?
The role of the ARIES S1 has undergone a significant evolution, transitioning from a mere streaming transport or bridge to a robust streaming processor. With its advanced onboard processing capabilities, the ARIES S1 now offers a plethora of processing features aimed at optimizing the audio signal: high-quality resampler, parametric equalizer, speaker placement compensation and loudness leveling. For the first time in the ARIES lineup, this product can process incoming signals from digital or USB inputs. Leveraging its onboard Tesla G3 platform, the ARIES S1 processes the signal, effectively removing jitter and artifacts before applying user-selected processing features to enhance the audio quality. The processed signal is then output via digital or USB connection, ensuring an enriched listening experience that remains faithful to the original source.
Power Supply (optional)
For those seeking an even higher level of audio quality, AURALiC offers an optional upgrade: the S1 External Purer-Power Supply Unit. This unit bypasses the internal power supply of the ARIES S1 and VEGA S1, doubling the power capacity for enhanced performance. Featuring two dedicated transformers and Purer-Power low noise power supply circuits, the upgraded unit ensures a total galvanic isolation between the Tesla G3 processing circuit and audio circuits. This separation eliminates interference and minimises noise, resulting in superior sonic performance that elevates your listening experience to new heights.
For me, the new Aries S1 is one of Auralic’s best-ever products – and that’s really saying something. It unlocks a world of seriously high-quality streaming at a relatively affordable price and does so with the élan you would expect from this brand. For those already with a DAC that they know and love, it’s a no-brainer. Operationally smooth, beautifully built and very well engineered, if you’re looking for a serious streamer, then it’s hard to think of a reason not to audition one.
David Price, Stereonet
Full review can be read here.
